March 13, 2014 4:58:13 PM EDT

Extra virgin olive oil, which is world renowned for promoting good health, is actually processed a little differently than your usual oils. Extra virgin olive oil is usually cold-pressed, or processed with very little heat to maintain the flavor and benefits of the olive that can sometimes be lost during other extraction methods that involve high heat.

VEA Early Harvest Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a quality oil made from Alberquina olives picked in early November, when the olives are green and young and the yield is only 50%, resulting in a high-quality oil that embodies all characteristics that a great olive oil should posses.

VEA Early Harvest Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil really should be featured and be allowed to stand out. A roasted chicken seasoned with olive oil and pepper comes to mind. I have also used to simply dip bread in. Because I am a fan of spices, sometimes nothing satisfies more than a few slices of Italian bread dipped in olive oil seasoned with red pepper, parsley, and thyme.

I cannot stress enough what a great companion olive oil is with appetizers and picnic food. It’s great for dipping breads, and a great compliment for cheeses, fruit and wine. If you are a fan of making homemade sauces, this VEA Early Harvest Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil will really add a special texture and fresh taste. Make a fresh Bolognese sauce with this olive oil, tomatoes, and your favorite Italian seasonings. Use it to flavor salmons or fresh fish, or to even top off an oven roasted sandwich.

Once you start developing your palate, you will soon start discovering the different textures and undertones in quality oils. This oil is a great way to start because it is still familiar and similar to your average store-bought oils, but once you get a taste, you might never go back.

March 13, 2014 4:54:47 PM EDT

Olive oil is definitely one of my favorite oils to cook with. It is a higher quality alternative to margarine or butter, and is known for having healthier advantages than either of these. It is high in fiber, to help you feel fuller longer, monounsaturated fatty acids to help regulate blood sugar, and it is high in antioxidants and vitamin E, which are great for overall well-being.

What I have learned recently is that there are many different kinds of olive oils out there, with different flavor profiles that go differently with foods. Some olive oils are great for frying and general cooking, while others are great with certain breads and fish. Some are even sweet. Les Costes Limited Selection Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil by VEA, an Arbequina olive oil, is an example of the higher end, quality oils that chefs use.

Arberquina olives grow on a variety of trees that are over 200 years old and have a limited yield. They’re grown in soil rich in minerals, which results in adding to the character of the oil, creating a special and thicker textured oil with a nutty aroma.

Alberquina olive oil is great on fish and vegetables, or alone with the right type of bread. I prefer a soft olive loaf, but this is an opportunity to play with your palate and see what pleases you. This is the kind of oil that should be featured on a dish and be allowed to stand out on its own. Its special qualities are too many to be hidden as part of a dish. If you are an olive oil connoisseur, this is a great oil to feature at your next picnic or wine tasting. With its peppery finish and slight chocolate return, it could also go really well with a rich, sweet dish. Pair Les Costes Limited Selection Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil by VEA up with some of your favorite dishes to come up with new and exciting tastes and flavors.